Energy drinks: Which are the most harmful? - Gazeta Express
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Food/Diet

Express newspaper

03/04/2026 21:49

Energy drinks: Which are the most harmful?

Food/Diet

Express newspaper

03/04/2026 21:49

Packed with sugar, caffeine and a mix of additives, energy drinks are rarely recommended as part of a healthy diet.

However, they continue to be among the most popular drinks, used as a quick fix for energy and concentration – from athletes to tired workers.

But how safe are they really?

Nutritionist Rob Hobson says the main problem lies in combining high doses of caffeine with large amounts of sugar. According to him, most people do not need such a strong stimulation and often a plain coffee would be a better choice.

Below is a rating of some of the most popular drinks:

Monster Energy (Original Green)

Caffeine: 160 mg

Calories: 237 kcal

Sugar: 55 g

This drink contains more than the recommended daily amount of sugar in just one can – the equivalent of over five donuts. It provides a lot of quick energy, but with low nutritional value and it is easy to consume in excess.

Rating: 1/5

Red Bull (Original)

Caffeine: 160 mg

Calories: 220 kcal

Sugar: 52 g

Although it is often perceived as “lighter” due to its smaller cans, in larger versions it contains significant amounts of sugar. Regular consumption can be addictive as a source of energy.

Rating: 2/5

Reign Total Body Fuel

Caffeine: 300 mg

Calories: 16 kcal

Sugar: 0 g

Sugar-free, but high in caffeine. One can approaches the maximum recommended daily limit for adults, which can affect sleep and increase anxiety.

Rating: 2/5

Rockstar (Tropical Guava)

Caffeine: 200 mg

Calories: 120 kcal

Sugar: 25 g

It has less sugar than some others, but it still remains at high levels – almost like a soda. It should be seen more as a sweet caffeinated drink than a functional product.

Rating: 2/5

Bang Energy

Caffeine: 300 mg

Calories: 0 kcal

Sugar: 0 g

Sugar-free, but very high in caffeine. The additional ingredients do not provide any real benefits. Daily consumption is not recommended.

Rating: 2/5

C4 Energy

Caffeine: 160 mg

Calories: 26 kcal

Sugar: 0 g

A more balanced option: sugar-free and moderately caffeine-free. It can be useful as a pre-workout, but not necessarily necessary for most people.

Rating: 3/5

Spike Hardcore Energy

Caffeine: 350 mg

Calories: 10 kcal

Sugar: 0 g

With a very high caffeine content, this drink can cause side effects such as rapid heartbeat, tremors, and sleep problems. It is not suitable for daily use.

Rating: 0/5

Energy drinks often provide a temporary "boost," but in many cases come at a health cost. Whether due to high sugar or excessive doses of caffeine, they are not the ideal solution for sustained energy. Healthier alternatives remain good sleep, a balanced diet, and regular physical activity. /GazetaExpress/

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